I want to upgrade my analog front-end.What will stay is the VPI Aries3 with upgraded platter and periphery ring.

I am looking for a new cartridge and new dedicated phono stage.

Is there a new, better motor?

But first, what options do I have as a power supply upgrade for my VPI Aries 3?I live in the Netherlands and this means I have a different motor with a larger spindle than what you see in the US with 60Hz ... right?I think this is a 300 RPM version?.

Can I use the Heed Orbit 2, or apparently even better the Heed Orbit 1 with a modification of the motor (removing the phase cap).....The latter puzzles me as that would require an extra wire to the motor I presume and the unit has a normal female IEC mains plug at the output.I can't find a clear explanation on this on the web.

I would suggest a VPI ADS motor controller https://www.vpiindustries.com/ads which is compatible with both North American and European spec'd voltages and line frequencies.

Your current dual motor flywheel is VPI's best motor, therefore, I would not change it. VPI no longer makes the rim drive head unit for the HRX dual motor flywheel but they do on occasion come up on the used market. I would grab one of those as IMHO, it is a significant upgrade.

And is there a better Motor for in my housing (European)?I read somewhere about a 300 rpm upgrade kit:

300 RPM Motor Upgrade kit

You can upgrade your VPI motor to the new lower noise & vibration 300 rpm motor used on the Classic Signature, Aries, Prime, and HRX turntables! This upgrade gives substantial improvement over your current VPI motor!This upgrade requires no soldering and can be installed easily in your own home in just minutes.This kit includes:300 rpm MotorLarger pulley (please specify when ordering with your dealer if you have a 11.5 inch or 12 inch platter.)Special capacitor for installation in your current Scout motor chassis (only needed for Scout turntables

And is there a better Motor for in my housing (European)?I read somewhere about a 300 rpm upgrade kit:

300 RPM Motor Upgrade kit

You can upgrade your VPI motor to the new lower noise & vibration 300 rpm motor used on the Classic Signature, Aries, Prime, and HRX turntables! This upgrade gives substantial improvement over your current VPI motor!This upgrade requires no soldering and can be installed easily in your own home in just minutes.This kit includes:300 rpm MotorLarger pulley (please specify when ordering with your dealer if you have a 11.5 inch or 12 inch platter.)Special capacitor for installation in your current Scout motor chassis (only needed for Scout turntables

Is that still an option

The 300rpm motor mentioned above is for a US spec’d 24 pole, AC synchronous motor. Your motor is the European equivalent but due to the lower 50hz line frequency is will rotate at 250rpm. There is absolutely no reason to change out your motor.

The VPI ADS (which is VPI newest motor controller) would be a worthwhile upgrade. The Aries 3 is an absolute killer table.